How to Make Oven-Baked Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: Step-by-Step Guide

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Are you looking for a delicious and traditional dish that only gets better when baked in the oven? Then look no further as we guide you through the simple and mouth-watering process of making stuffed cabbage rolls. This recipe is a blend of rich flavors and comforting textures that can be enjoyed as a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish. Follow along with our detailed instructions and tips to create these memorable cabbage rolls in your very own oven!

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Ingredients for Oven-Baked Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Main Ingredients and Components:

r r 1 large head of cabbager 1 pound ground beef or turkeyr 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)r 1 small onion, finely choppedr 2 cloves garlic, mincedr 1 eggr 1 teaspoon saltr 1/2 teaspoon black pepperr 1 teaspoon paprikar 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)r r r

Sauce Components:

r r 1 can (15 oz) tomato saucer 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, optionalr 2 tablespoons brown sugar, optional for sweetnessr 1 teaspoon Worcestershire saucer Salt and pepper to taster r r

Instructions for Making Oven-Baked Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Preparing the Cabbage:

r r Bring a large pot of water to a boil.r Remove the core from the cabbage carefully.r Place the whole head of cabbage in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves start to soften.r Remove the cabbage and let it cool.r Peel off about 12 large leaves. Soften the inner leaves if needed by returning the cabbage to the boiling water for a few more minutes.r r r

Creating the Filling:

r r In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme until well combined.r r r

Assembling the Cabbage Rolls:

r r Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).r Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the stem end. Fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly.r Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.r Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.r r r

Preparation of the Sauce:

r r In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes if using, brown sugar (optional), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.r Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls in the baking dish.r r r

Baking:

r r Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour.r After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.r r r

Serving:

r r Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving.r Enjoy your oven-baked stuffed cabbage rolls with some crusty bread or a side salad!r r r

Customization and Variations

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To make these cabbage rolls even more delicious, you can customize the filling by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. For those preferring a vegetarian option, swap the ground meat for lentils or quinoa and enhance the filling with additional vegetables.

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Feel free to explore different ways to personalize this recipe and make it your own. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is a fantastic way to delight in the delightful flavors of this traditional dish. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!